Are Mineral Pools Better Than Chlorine? What Works Best For Fibreglass Pools?
If you’re planning a new swimming pool or upgrading an existing one, chances are you’ve come across the buzz around mineral pools. Touted as a gentler, more natural alternative to chlorine, mineral pools are growing in popularity—especially among families. But are mineral pools actually better than chlorine? And more importantly, what works best for fibreglass pools? In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both systems, focusing on what’s most compatible with fibreglass pools and the lifestyle of Aussie homeowners looking for long-term value and easier pool care.


Why Water Treatment Matters in Fibreglass Pools
Your fibreglass pool is a significant investment in your home, lifestyle, and family’s enjoyment. While it’s known for being low maintenance compared to concrete or vinyl, water chemistry still plays a critical role in protecting the surface over time. The gelcoat finish of a fibreglass pool can become discoloured, stained, or even damaged if the water balance isn’t maintained correctly.
Choosing the right water treatment—whether it’s mineral-based or traditional chlorine—is essential to keeping your fibreglass pool looking great and functioning well for years to come.
What Is a Mineral Pool?
A mineral pool system uses naturally occurring minerals such as magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, and sometimes borates to sanitise the water. These systems still require a small amount of chlorine—usually generated via a salt or mineral chlorinator—to keep algae and bacteria at bay. However, the chlorine levels are significantly lower than in traditional pools.
Key Benefits of Mineral Pools for Fibreglass Pools
- Gentle on the pool surface: Mineral systems are softer on the gelcoat of fibreglass pools, helping to prevent surface wear and long-term damage
- Soothing for skin and eyes: Mineral-rich water is less harsh, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin, allergies, or asthma
- Smoother swimming experience: Many pool owners describe mineral water as silky, refreshing, and luxurious to swim in
- Natural water clarity: Minerals help maintain sparkling clear water and can reduce calcium build-up, which is especially helpful in fibreglass pools
- Reduced chemical use: Mineral pools use less chlorine overall, which means fewer strong smells and less risk of over-chlorination or chemical imbalance
What About Traditional Chlorine Pools?
Traditional chlorine pools use liquid, granular, or tablet chlorine to sanitise the water. Chlorine is highly effective at keeping pools clean and algae-free, but it comes with some trade-offs—particularly for fibreglass pool owners who want to preserve their pool’s smooth finish and avoid surface degradation.


Challenges of Chlorine for Fibreglass Pools
- Surface impact: High chlorine levels or poor chemical management can damage the gelcoat of fibreglass pools over time
- Odour: Strong chlorine smells are common, especially if the pool isn’t well maintained
- Irritation: Red eyes, itchy skin, and dry hair are common complaints with traditional chlorine pools
- More frequent maintenance: Chlorine levels need to be checked and balanced regularly, often requiring more hands-on upkeep and chemical testing
That said, chlorine is tried-and-true. It’s readily available, effective, and affordable—but does require careful attention to water balance to avoid long-term issues, particularly with fibreglass.
Which System Works Best for Fibreglass Pools?
If you’re weighing up the two options, here’s how mineral and chlorine systems compare in real-world usage—particularly when paired with a fibreglass pool:
- Water quality and comfort: Mineral pools deliver a noticeably softer, more luxurious swimming experience with fewer irritants
- Impact on the pool surface: Mineral systems are much gentler on fibreglass, helping maintain the pool’s appearance and structural integrity
- Ongoing maintenance: Mineral pools still require care but tend to hold their balance longer and need fewer chemical adjustments
- Overall cost: Mineral systems may cost more upfront but often result in savings on chemical use, equipment wear, and repairs down the line
For many homeowners, the comfort and care benefits of mineral systems far outweigh the initial investment—especially if the pool is used frequently or by children and those with skin sensitivities.
Is a Mineral Pool Worth It?
For fibreglass pools, yes—absolutely.
The reduced chemical load and gentler water are ideally suited to the smooth, non-porous surface of a fibreglass pool. The water feels better, looks clearer, and is generally easier to manage. Plus, you’ll likely enjoy:
- Lower maintenance demands
- Longer-lasting pool surface
- A better swimming experience overall
- Fewer skin and eye irritations for swimmers
It’s also worth noting that many modern mineral pool systems can be added to existing salt chlorinators, making it easier than you might think to upgrade your current setup without replacing all of your equipment.


Before You Decide
There are a few things to think about before locking in your water treatment system:
- Do you already have a salt chlorinator? If so, you may be able to switch to minerals with minimal changes
- Are you looking for a low-maintenance system? Mineral systems tend to require fewer chemical adjustments and manual testing
- Do you or your family have sensitive skin? Mineral water is much gentler and more comfortable for swimmers of all ages
Do you want to preserve your fibreglass finish? Minerals are less harsh on the gelcoat and help prevent staining, fading, or scaling
What Do the Experts Recommend?
Pool professionals generally recommend either mineral systems or salt chlorinators for fibreglass pools. These systems are known for being:
- Easier to maintain than manually dosed chlorine
- Kinder to both swimmers and pool surfaces
- Long-term friendly for pumps, filters, and the gelcoat finish
While both options can work well, mineral pools offer added benefits that align beautifully with the features and strengths of a fibreglass pool, especially in our Aussie climate.
Final Thoughts
So, are mineral pools better than chlorine for fibreglass pools?
For most homeowners, the answer is yes. While both systems can keep your pool clean and swimmable, mineral pools provide a more comfortable experience, lower maintenance effort, and better long-term care for your pool—making them a standout choice for fibreglass pool owners.
Ready to Build or Upgrade Your Fibreglass Pool?
At Newcastle Swimming Pools, we specialise in fibreglass pool installations and tailored water treatment systems that suit your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re exploring mineral pools, saltwater chlorinators, or just want honest advice—we’re here to help.
Get a free pool quote today and start planning your dream mineral pool with the local experts at Newcastle Swimming Pools.